Four Georgia teens were arrested early Tuesday after police say they vandalized LGBTQ Pride flags and performed scooter stunts on a rainbow-colored crosswalk in midtown Atlanta. Now, they could face hate crime charges under Georgia’s enhanced penalty statute.
The incident unfolded around 1:40 a.m. near the intersection of Piedmont Avenue and 10th Street, a location known for its LGBTQ landmarks. According to Atlanta police, witnesses called 911 after seeing a group of six young men tearing down Pride flags outside a popular gay bar and using knives to cut them. The group then took turns doing tricks on motorized scooters across the rainbow-painted crosswalk installed in honor of the 49 people killed in the 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting.
“They’re in the middle of the street popping wheelies, tearing up flags,” a 911 caller said during the incident.
By the time officers arrived, the suspects had fled on scooters. Four were apprehended shortly afterward, while two remain at large. Surveillance footage released by APD shows the group holding Pride flags and loitering near the intersection, according to FOX5.
The arrested teens were identified as Geami McCarroll, 17; Logan Matthison, 18; and Ahmed Mechkouri, 18—all from Dallas, Georgia—as well as a 16-year-old from Taylorsville whose name was not released. All face charges of obstruction, criminal damage to property, conspiracy, and prowling. Police say the group traveled specifically to midtown Atlanta with intent to vandalize the property.
The 16-year-old’s father has also been cited for failure to supervise his son.
Hate Crime Charges Under Consideration
Atlanta Police say they are considering hate crime charges, which could significantly increase penalties. Under Georgia’s 2020 hate crime law, prosecutors can seek sentencing enhancements if a crime is proven to be motivated by bias related to identity—including sexual orientation.
A misdemeanor offense could mean an extra six to 12 months in jail and up to a $5,000 fine. Felonies could carry two to 12 additional years behind bars.
Sgt. Brandon Hayes said the department is treating the incident seriously. “This community [is taken] very seriously, and we want to make sure residents feel safe,” Hayes said at a press conference.
Online Reactions: Critics Question the Severity
News of the possible hate crime charges has triggered swift backlash online. Social media users have called the situation an overreach, pointing to the relatively minor nature of the damage and the youth of those involved. Conservative commentators have questioned the priorities of law enforcement in a city struggling with violent crime.
Others noted the double standard between how property crimes are treated when they involve politically charged symbols.
Despite the backlash, police say their investigation is ongoing and that the charges are being reviewed by prosecutors.
Two suspects are still at large. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Atlanta Police Department.